Caregiver says it’s okay to take it easy during Thanksgiving, holidays

Seventy–nine–year–old Ada Robinson was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2015, but she still has fond memories of teaching kindergarten.

“They used to bring things to school and share something that they had from home and it was just a lot of fun listening to them,” Ada said.

That’s not to say Alzheimer’s is not affecting her.  She said she can no longer drive, go shopping or roam freely, which she said is a big change for her normally Type A personality.

“It’s hard,” she said.  “Some days you don’t know who you are or what you’re going to do.”

She largely depends on her daughter, Tami, who is also her caretaker.

“I sold my home and moved into her home and was there for a little over a year before we made the decision to transition here,” Tami said.

Tami says it became very difficult to work full time while caring for her mother.

She said the time caregivers spend looking after those who need them can be taxing during Thanksgiving and the holidays.  So she said it’s okay for caregivers to take some shortcuts to make everything easier.

“Don’t feel like you have to make everything from scratch this year,” Tami said.  “It’s okay to cater something, or it’s okay to by a pie from a local bakery…instead, focus on just valuing time that you spent with your family.”

Ada agrees.

“Just being with family and having a good time,” Ada said.  “And being together.  That’s the main thing.”

The Alzheimer’s Association has a help line families can call during the holidays.

That number is 1–800–272–3900.